Does White Cherry ICEE Have Red Dye 40?

November 17, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the official ICEE website, the White Cherry flavor is deliberately formulated without any artificial food dyes, including Red Dye 40. This distinguishes it from the standard red cherry flavor, which typically contains the coloring agent.

Quick Summary

The White Cherry ICEE does not contain Red Dye 40, making it a dye-free option for consumers. It is formulated with artificial flavors to mimic the taste of white or Rainier cherries, rather than the deep red varieties. The classic red cherry flavor of ICEE, however, does contain Red Dye 40.

Key Points

Dye-Free Formulation: White Cherry ICEE is deliberately made without artificial colorings, including Red Dye 40.
Ingredient Contrast: Unlike the standard red cherry ICEE, which contains Red Dye 40, the White Cherry version is clear or milky white.
Flavor Profile: The flavor is based on white cherries, such as Rainier cherries, which have a naturally lighter color and flavor.
Caters to Sensitivities: This dye-free option is popular with consumers who have sensitivities or adverse reactions to artificial food colorings.
Consumer-Driven Trend: The offering of a dye-free option aligns with a larger industry trend of providing cleaner, more natural ingredient lists.
Label Reading is Key: It's important for consumers to read ingredient labels, as other ICEE flavors and similar products may contain artificial dyes.

Understanding the 'White Cherry' Distinction

For many consumers, differentiating between various cherry-flavored products can be confusing, especially when colors suggest a certain ingredient. The White Cherry ICEE is a notable example, as its clear or slightly milky-white appearance signals an important ingredient distinction from its bright red counterpart. The key difference lies in the formulation, which intentionally excludes artificial colorings to cater to customers who are sensitive or allergic to food dyes.

Official Ingredient Breakdown

The ingredient list provided by ICEE for its White Cherry flavor explicitly omits any food dyes. The formula consists of a blend of high fructose corn syrup, water, artificial flavors, and preservatives, without the inclusion of FD&C Red #40. This differs significantly from the standard Cherry ICEE, where Red Dye 40 is a listed ingredient alongside caramel color. The flavor profile is designed to replicate the taste of 'white cherries,' also known as Rainier cherries, which are typically less tart and have a lighter color than the dark red Bing cherries.

Why No Red Dye 40?

For many people, avoiding artificial dyes is a lifestyle choice or a medical necessity. Red Dye 40 is one of the most common food colorings and has been linked to potential side effects in some individuals, particularly children. By offering a dye-free version, ICEE provides an inclusive option that still delivers a popular fruit flavor. The creation of a 'white' version allows the company to reach a broader audience, including those who have adverse reactions or simply prefer to limit their intake of synthetic additives.

Comparing White Cherry to Other ICEE Flavors

The ingredient choices become even more apparent when comparing the White Cherry ICEE to other flavors in the brand's lineup. This comparison highlights how ICEE uses different formulations and colorings depending on the desired outcome and marketing for each product.


Feature	White Cherry ICEE	Classic Red Cherry ICEE	Blue Raspberry ICEE
Appearance	Clear to slightly milky white	Bright, translucent red	Translucent blue
Red Dye 40	No	Yes	No
Other Dyes	None	Caramel Color	FD&C Blue #1
Allergen-Free	Yes (per FDA definition)	Yes (per FDA definition)	Yes (per FDA definition)
Flavor Basis	Rainier-style white cherries	Dark red Bing-style cherries	Artificial blue raspberry

As the table shows, the White Cherry ICEE stands out as the only one of these popular options that is completely free of artificial coloring agents. Its clean ingredient list makes it a go-to choice for those with dietary concerns about food dyes.

Common Flavor Confusion

Some confusion arises when people encounter products like the 'Red, White, and Boom' flavor, which is a blend and may or may not contain dyes, or homemade versions that use food coloring. The key is always to check the official ingredients list for the specific flavor and brand in question. The popularity of the dye-free white cherry flavor has even led some to mix standard red cherry ICEE with Sprite as a DIY solution to mimic the taste, though this does not replicate the exact official formulation.

The Dye-Free Movement in Food and Drink

The availability of products like the White Cherry ICEE reflects a larger trend in the food and beverage industry towards clean labels and accommodating consumer health concerns. This movement is driven by increasing awareness of artificial ingredients and a preference for more natural products. For ICEE, offering a dye-free version of a classic flavor is a strategic move that responds directly to this market demand. While not all flavors can be made without artificial colors, having at least one popular dye-free option is a significant step.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the White Cherry ICEE does not contain Red Dye 40. Its clear or milky-white appearance is a direct result of the company's decision to exclude artificial food dyes from this specific flavor. By contrast, the classic red cherry ICEE does list Red Dye 40 as an ingredient. For individuals seeking a delicious frozen treat without synthetic colorings, the White Cherry flavor is a confirmed dye-free choice. When in doubt about other products, consulting the official ingredient list is always the best course of action.

What are artificial food dyes and why do some people avoid them?

Artificial food dyes, like Red Dye 40, are chemical compounds added to food for coloring. Some people avoid them due to concerns about potential health effects, including hyperactivity in some children and possible allergic reactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the White Cherry ICEE is dye-free, it is still a sugary treat primarily made of high fructose corn syrup and water. It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The flavor is derived from artificial and natural flavors, which are added to the syrup concentrate. Color has no bearing on the flavor of the product.

Yes, the flavor profiles are different. The White Cherry flavor is based on the lighter, less tart profile of white cherries, while the red cherry flavor emulates the taste of darker red cherries.

The availability of different ICEE flavors varies by location. White Cherry may be less common than the standard Red Cherry or Blue Raspberry, so it's not guaranteed to be at every location.

While most flavored ICEEs contain artificial dyes, the White Cherry is a reliable dye-free option. Customers concerned about dyes should always check the ingredients for any specific flavor they are interested in.

Many people prefer dye-free products due to sensitivities or allergies to artificial food colors. Some studies have linked certain food dyes to behavioral issues in children, leading to increased demand for dye-free alternatives.

Based on the ingredients listed on the official ICEE website, the White Cherry flavor does not contain any animal products. The ICEE website also indicates the product is free from allergens as defined by the FDA and is gluten-free.